Three tankers were attacked on September 29, 2026, in the Strait of Hormuz. This event occurred as Iran seems to be trying to demonstrate its power and threaten ships. However, reports indicate an increase in oil flow and ship traffic in the area.
Details of the Attacks on the Tankers
According to the information provided, two tankers have been identified, both flying the Liberian flag and have sustained damage. One of these tankers, Mersin Prosperity (299,319 dwt), is operated by ADNOC. The other tanker, which appears to be smaller, is related to shuttle operations for transporting oil from Gulf countries to tankers waiting in the southern strait in the Arabian Sea. This tanker has been identified as Sinbad (115,949 dwt) and the last report from it was recorded in Fujairah. Both tankers were transiting the strait in dark transit.
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Iran's Claims and Oil Export Status
Fars News Agency has reported that warning shots have been fired at ships violating the rules of the Strait of Hormuz. This news agency did not provide further details about these attacks but mentioned reported explosions near Qeshm Island and other coastal areas. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Revolutionary Guard, General Hossein Mohibi, reiterated that Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that ships attempting to pass through the strait without permission will either be targeted or hit mines.
While Iran makes these claims, evidence shows that the volume of oil from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq is increasing. Windward MIOC has assessed that Iran is no longer able to restrict traffic in the southern corridor as it did last summer. Tracking data indicates that on September 29, 17 ships passed through the Strait of Hormuz. At the same time, Kpler reports that over 70% of the crude oil that passed through the Strait of Hormuz in August was transshipped outside the strait's waters.
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